Amazon Beefs Up Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader Line; Adds 1st Kids' Model

Amazon updated its Paperwhite line of e-readers with three models that went on preorder Tuesday for delivery in late October. The 2021 line includes the first model designed for kids, which Amazon described as “purpose-built” for reading with no distractions, such as games or video, for kids ages 7 and up. The waterproof 6.8-inch Kindle Paperwhite Kids ($159) has an adjustable “warm” light, glare-free display and up to a 10-week battery life; it comes with a free year of Amazon Kids+ ($2.99 monthly subscription) and a two-year guarantee. The standard model also stepped up to a 6.8-inch display from 6 inches and features the adjustable light, USB-C charging and 10-week battery life. The base model ($139) has 8 GB storage. The Signature model ($189) adds an auto-adjusting light sensor, 32 GB storage and wireless charging, a first in the Kindle line, Amazon said. The Book Cover feature lets users see the cover of the book they’re reading on the lock screen without ads. Both models come with four free months of Kindle Unlimited ($9.99 a month).